What Final Fantasy Should I Start With? A Beginner's Guide

Hello there, gaming enthusiasts! Today, we're diving into the magical world of Final Fantasy, a sprawling RPG series with a rich history and a devoted fanbase. If you're new to the series and wondering, "What Final Fantasy should I start with?" you've come to the right place. We'll guide you through the series, highlighting the best starting points, and helping you find your perfect entry into the world of crystals, moogles, and Chocobos. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and what final fantasy should i start with.

Understanding the Final Fantasy Series

Before we jump into our recommendations, let's quickly understand the Final Fantasy series. It's a Japanese role-playing game (RPG) series developed by Square Enix. The series is known for its intricate storylines, memorable characters, and strategic gameplay. Each game is a standalone story, set in a different world, with its own unique features and mechanics.

Should I Start with the Original Final Fantasy?

The original Final Fantasy, released in 1987, is a classic that laid the groundwork for the entire series. It's a fantastic game, but it might not be the best starting point for beginners. The gameplay mechanics, while revolutionary for its time, can feel dated compared to modern RPGs. The story and characters are engaging, but the pacing and presentation might be a barrier for new players.

Why not start here? While the original Final Fantasy is a masterpiece, its age might make it less accessible for newcomers. The best Final Fantasy games offer a more modern gaming experience, which is why we recommend starting with later entries.

The Best Final Fantasy Games to Start With

Final Fantasy VII (1997)

Final Fantasy VII is often considered the best entry point for newcomers. Here's why:

- Story and Characters: FFVII tells the story of Cloud Strife and his friends as they fight against the evil Shinra Company. The story is engaging, with a mix of drama, comedy, and action. The characters are well-developed and memorable, with each having their own unique backstory and motivations.

- Gameplay: FFVII introduces the Active Time Battle (ATB) system, which allows players to input commands in real-time, adding a layer of strategy to battles. The Materia system lets you customize your characters' abilities, making it easy to tailor your party to your playstyle.

- Accessibility: FFVII is available on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, and even mobile devices. The Remake, released in 2020, is a modern reimagining of the original, with updated graphics and gameplay mechanics.

Why start here? FFVII offers a great balance of story, gameplay, and accessibility. It's a fantastic starting point for newcomers, and it's even better if you're planning to play the entire series.

Final Fantasy X (2001)

Final Fantasy X is another excellent choice for beginners. Here's what makes it stand out:

- Story and Characters: FFX tells the story of Tidus, a young athlete from the fictional world of Spira, as he joins a group of summoners and guardians on a pilgrimage to defeat Sin, a monstrous creature that destroys the world every hundred years. The story is engaging, with a mix of humor, drama, and action. The characters are well-developed, with each having their own unique motivations and backstories.

- Gameplay: FFX introduces the Conditional Turn-Based Battle (CTB) system, which displays the order of turns in battle, allowing players to strategize accordingly. The Sphere Grid system lets you customize your characters' abilities, making it easy to tailor your party to your playstyle.

- Accessibility: FFX is available on multiple platforms, including PC, PlayStation, and even mobile devices. The HD Remaster, released in 2013, features updated graphics and other improvements.

Why start here? FFX offers a great story, engaging gameplay, and a unique setting. It's a fantastic starting point for newcomers, and it's even better if you're planning to play the entire series.

Final Fantasy XV (2016)

Final Fantasy XV is the most recent mainline entry in the series, and it's another great choice for beginners. Here's what makes it stand out:

- Story and Characters: FFXV tells the story of Noctis Lucis Caelum, the heir to the throne of the kingdom of Lucis, as he and his friends embark on a road trip to rescue their homeland from the Niflheim Empire. The story is engaging, with a mix of drama, comedy, and action. The characters are well-developed, with each having their own unique motivations and backstories.

- Gameplay: FFXV introduces a real-time combat system, where players can input commands in real-time, adding a layer of strategy to battles. The Ascension system lets you customize your characters' abilities, making it easy to tailor your party to your playstyle.

- Accessibility: FFXV is available on multiple platforms, including PC and PlayStation. The Royal Edition, released in 2018, features updated content and improvements.

Why start here? FFXV offers a great story, engaging gameplay, and a unique setting. It's a fantastic starting point for newcomers, and it's even better if you're planning to play the entire series.

What About the Other Final Fantasy Games?

The other mainline Final Fantasy games are also great, but they might not be the best starting points for newcomers. Here's a brief overview:

- Final Fantasy VIII (1999): FFVIII is a fantastic game with a unique story and gameplay mechanics. However, its Junction system can be confusing for newcomers.

- Final Fantasy IX (2000): FFIX is a fan favorite with a charming story and memorable characters. However, its Active Time Event (ATE) system can be confusing for newcomers.

- Final Fantasy XII (2006): FFXII is a fantastic game with a unique gameplay system called the Active Dimension Battle (ADB). However, its complex story and gameplay mechanics might be a barrier for newcomers.

- Final Fantasy XIII (2009): FFXIII is a divisive entry in the series. While it has a great story and engaging gameplay, its linear nature and complex story might put off some newcomers.

- Final Fantasy XIV (2010): FFXIV is an MMO that's known for its engaging story and gameplay. However, it requires a subscription and a significant time investment, which might not be appealing to all newcomers.

Final Thoughts

So, "What Final Fantasy should I start with?" We recommend starting with one of the following:

1. Final Fantasy VII: It offers a great balance of story, gameplay, and accessibility. It's a fantastic starting point for newcomers, and it's even better if you're planning to play the entire series.

2. Final Fantasy X: It offers a great story, engaging gameplay, and a unique setting. It's a fantastic starting point for newcomers, and it's even better if you're planning to play the entire series.

3. Final Fantasy XV: It offers a great story, engaging gameplay, and a unique setting. It's a fantastic starting point for newcomers, and it's even better if you're planning to play the entire series.

Whichever game you choose, we hope you enjoy your journey into the world of Final Fantasy. Happy gaming!

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